THE inaugural Young Carer Awards were presented by Carers Trust Hillingdon on Wednesday (15) at the Beck Theatre, Hayes.

They aim to recognise the achievements of some of the young people who provide regular support to a parent, sibling or family member who is frail, ill, disabled or living with a long-term condition.

A total of 230 people were in the audience, including young and young adult carers, their families – along with the Mayor of Hillingdon. 

Young carers take on many responsibilities at home, ranging from cooking, cleaning, shopping, budgeting, managing medication and advocating for their family member. 

Twenty young carers from Hillingdon, aged from five to 25, were honoured on the night in categories ranging from Positive Role Model, to Apprentice of the Year and Academic Excellence.

Young Carer of the Year was Eleanor St Romaine, who first linked up with the service at 12 years old as her mother has a rare neurological disorder. 

Eleanor has regularly attended youth club sessions, trips, workshops and residential breaks. The trust recently supported her in a sports traineeship, with her passion for sports and outdoor activities sparked by sampling climbing, snowboarding, abseiling and white water rafting with the Young Carers.

Jo Burns, Young Carer Manager, said: “Eleanor is an amazing young lady and a fantastic ambassador for both young carers and our services.”

Eleanor said: “The active support of Hillingdon Young Carers helps to distract me from my responsibilities as a young carer and, in equal measure, replenishes me to continue my role.”